University reveals London plans – and a £15m expansion in the heart of York

York St John University is proposing to expand in York – and possibly into London.

The news was revealed at the Yorkshire Universities Development Plans Conference by Laura Hallett, head of strategic projects & change at York St John.

She said that work was due to begin on its new £15 million Creative Centre building in 2019. Design work is underway on the 4,500 sq ft centre across three storeys, which consists of three buildings linked by an atrium.

Featuring a showcase exhibition space, the centre is due to open in 2020.

Capital idea

Laura Hallett speaking at the conference. Photograph: Built Environment Networking

Architects were asked to submit designs for the Creative Centre by September last year.

The brief said: “In the context of rapid overall growth in student numbers on campus, the continued popularity of schools and subjects that require specialist space and the physical limitations across the rest of the estate, YSJU is seeking to build a new “Creative Centre” at its city centre Lord Mayor’s Walk campus.”

Meanwhile, a small corner of London may soon be claimed by York.

At the conference, organised by Built Environment Networking, Laura revealed that York St John University is set to open a new campus in London.

The University is currently looking to identify a circa 10,000 sq ft site.

She said the campus would allow students to “supercharge their final year and develop meaningful relationships with industry and professional contacts in the City”.